PANAJI
Goa’s plan to create urban forests across its municipal areas has received a major boost after the Centre approved financial assistance of up to Rs 6 crore for each project under the newly launched NAMO Van Yojana. The scheme will help the State develop dedicated green spaces to tackle rising temperatures and improve climate resilience.
The National Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) has approved guidelines for the Nagar Aarogya Mission for Oxygen (NAMO) Van Yojana, allowing urban local bodies and State governments to create forests in cities and towns over the next five years.
The scheme is expected to support Goa’s recently announced urban forestry initiative, under which the Forest and Urban Development departments have proposed creating “green lungs” in municipalities to address the urban heat island effect.
Rs 6 LAKH PER HECTARE AID
Under the guidelines, the Centre will provide a one-time grant of up to Rs 6 crore for each urban forest of up to 100 hectares, capped at Rs 6 lakh per hectare. Any additional cost will be borne by the State government or implementing agency.
The State recently launched its urban forestry mission. Forest and Urban Development Minister Vishwajit Rane has proposed creating dense green spaces to improve air quality, conserve biodiversity and provide healthier public spaces.
The proposal, discussed with municipal chairpersons, councillors and Forest and Urban Development officials, aims to convert degraded urban land into forests using the Miyawaki method, besides developing vertical gardens, rainwater harvesting systems and other green public spaces.
STRICT CRITERIA
Under the guidelines, every NAMO Van must be developed on encumbrance-free forest or non-forest land within or up to five kilometres from municipal limits, with at least two-thirds under tree cover. The forests will also feature tracks, water bodies, native nurseries and interpretation centres.
Project aims to strengthen climate resilience
PANAJI: The NAMO Van Yojana aims to improve air quality, reduce temperatures and boost groundwater recharge through native tree plantations. Municipal bodies, institutions and government agencies can develop projects, while industries, NGOs and civil society groups can participate through public-private partnerships.
